HOW TO VISIT ANAGA RURAL PARK, TENERIFE: A COMPLETE GUIDE

If you’re visiting Tenerife, you should definitely explore Anaga Rural Park, one of the most beautiful nature preserves on the island.

Anaga Rural Park is one of the most beautiful parts of Tenerife, known for its green mountains, ancient laurel forests, dramatic viewpoints, and secluded beaches. It’s located in the northeastern part of the island and it’s a completely different world from the sunny beach resorts in the south.

We explored Anaga during our trip to Tenerife, and I was amazed by the scenery, especially the combination of green hills and ocean views. In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know about visiting Anaga Rural Park, including the best viewpoints, hiking trails, beaches, how to get there, and practical tips to help you plan your trip.

WHERE IS ANAGA RURAL PARK

Anaga Rural Park is located in the northeastern part of Tenerife and it’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It’s known for its stunning laurel forests, dramatic mountains, and breathtaking coastline. It has over 100 km of hiking trails and some amazing beaches, so it’s the perfect spot to explore and enjoy nature this island has to offer. Anaga Rural Park was probably my favourite attraction we visited in Tenerife!

HOW TO GET TO ANAGA RURAL PARK

By Car

Like most attractions on the island, the easiest way to get to Anaga Rural Park is by car. Driving gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace since public transport is pretty limited. You can access the park from several towns, depending on which part you want to visit. We drove from Puerto de la Cruz to Cruz del Carmen for hiking, but went from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Benijo beach and Taganana.

The roads are pretty easy to navigate, but the park can get crowded, especially after 10 a.m. so be ready for some traffic if you’re visiting later in the day.

By Bus

Taking the bus isn’t the easiest way to explore Anaga Rural Park, but if you don’t have other options, it’s doable. TITSA buses connect Santa Cruz and La Laguna to different spots in the park, so just figure out which places you want to check out.

If you want to see the gorgeous Benijo beach, take the bus 946 – from Santa Cruz to Taganana, Almáciga, and Benijo. If you’re visiting Anaga for its incredible hiking trails, take the bus 947 – from Santa Cruz to Chamorga. Finally, if you want to visit the most popular part of the Anaga Rural Park, take the bus 076 from La Laguna to Cruz del Carmen.

By Guided Tour

If you don’t have a car and aren’t keen on taking the bus, you might want to consider exploring Anaga Rural Park on a guided tour. There are a few tour companies that offer guided hikes and 4×4 excursions to Anaga from popular spots like Costa Adeje and Puerto de la Cruz. Check out some options below!

ANAGA RURAL PARK PARKING

Parking in Anaga Rural Park is very limited, especially on weekends and holidays. Thousands of people visit this rural park, so I highly recommend coming as early as possible. The main parking lot near the visitor’s centre is Cruz del Carmen Parking. This parking lot is free but quite small, so it fills up quickly. We arrived a little after 9 a.m. and we barely found a parking spot there.

There are also several small parking lots near more popular viewpoints, such as Mirador Pico del Inglés, but those also fill out very fast. If there’s no parking available when you arrive, park in nearby areas along the road.

IS ANAGA RURAL PARK WORTH VISITING?

Anaga Rural Park is totally worth a visit, especially if you’re into nature, hiking, or just amazing landscapes. It was one of our favorite spots on the island. Even if you’re not a big hiker, you should definitely add it to your itinerary.

Firstly, the landscapes are absolutely stunning, like nothing I’ve ever seen anywhere else in the world. Anaga is probably home to the most scenic spots in Tenerife, with dramatic mountain peaks, deep ravines, and green laurel forests. Most viewpoints look like a postcard!

Next up, if you’re into hiking, this park will feel like heaven. There are trails for all levels, from easy strolls through the ancient forest to more challenging coastal routes. Some of the most popular hikes include Sendero de los Sentidos (a short, easy walk through a magical forest), Taganana Loop (perfect if you want a mix of mountain and coastal views), and Chamorga to Roque Bermejo (a tougher hike with jaw-dropping scenery). We only had time for Sendero de los Sentidos, but if you’re a hiking fan, be sure to check out the others too!

Finally, Anaga Rural Park is home to some of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever see. Unlike the crowded tourist beaches in the south, these are wild and unspoiled beaches. The most popular are Playa de Benijo, Playa de Almáciga, and Playa de Roque Bermejo.

ANAGA RURAL PARK TICKETS

You don’t need tickets to visit Anaga Rural Park, it’s totally free! There’s no entrance fee for the park, its trails, or viewpoints. It’s one of the best things about Tenerife: some of the most beautiful spots on the island are completely free to enjoy.

THINGS TO DO IN ANAGA RURAL PARK:

HIKE THE ANAGA TRAILS

Anaga has some amazing hiking trails, so if you’re into hiking, this park will blow you away. Here are the most popular hikes:

Sendero de los Sentidos

This trail, also known as the Trail of the Senses, is one of the shortest and easiest hikes in Anaga, but it’s absolutely beautiful. It takes you from the Mirador de Cruz del Carmen viewpoint near the visitor center to the Mirador del Llano de los Loros, a stunning viewpoint in the Anaga Forest.

The trail isn’t too difficult, most of it has steps and wooden walkways, but keep in mind it goes downhill first and then uphill on the way back. The views are absolutely stunning, and it’ll take about an hour to reach the viewpoint and head back. Make sure to wear comfy shoes and bring water!

Taganana Loop

The Taganana Loop is a gorgeous hike that starts in the village of Taganana. This circular trail offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged mountains, and laurel forests. It’s a moderate to difficult hike, depending on your experience and fitness level. It’s definitely longer than the Trail of the Senses, so make sure you’re ready for a solid 4-5 hour hike.

Chamorga to Roque Bermejo

The Chamorga to Roque Bermejo hike is one of the most beautiful and remote trails in Anaga. Starting in Chamorga village, it takes you to the secluded Roque Bermejo beach. It’s a moderately difficult hike, taking about 4-5 hours for a round trip. Hikers love this route because you get to explore the village, walk through gorgeous forests, enjoy some stunning views, and finish at a beautiful beach.

VISIT THE VIEWPOINTS

The viewpoints are definitely one of the highlights of Tenerife. No matter where you are, there’s usually an amazing viewpoint nearby. Here are some of the best ones in Anaga Rural Park!

Mirador de Cruz del Carmen

This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of La Laguna, with the stunning Mount Teide in the background. It’s located at the Cruz del Carmen Parking, so it’s super easy to get to. Plus, right next to it, you can start the easy Trail of the Senses!

Mirador Pico del Inglés

This viewpoint is absolutely breathtaking and you’ve got to see it. It’s just a few minutes by car from the Trail of the Senses, and it offers some of the most spectacular views on the island, with green hills and Mount Teide in the background. It’s pretty popular, so there are usually people around, but it’s totally worth the visit.

Mirador de Benijo

Benijo Beach is one of, if not THE, prettiest beach on the island, so this viewpoint is a must-see in Anaga Rural Park. You can get there by driving through the village of Taganana. From this viewpoint, you’ll be treated to incredible views of Benijo Beach and the rugged Anaga coastline.

Mirador de Jardina

This viewpoint is definitely one of my favorites we’ve seen on Tenerife. It offers stunning views of the Anaga Mountains and the city of La Laguna. It’s the perfect stop on your way to Anaga Rural Park.

Túnel de las Hadas

The Fairy Tunnel (or Túnel de las Hadas) is a magical, moss-covered path that feels like something out of a fairy tale. It’s part of the Laurisilva Forest, a subtropical forest that’s full of lush, green trees creating a mystical, almost enchanted vibe as you walk through. The trail is short but absolutely picturesque, and it’s a popular spot for hikers looking to explore Anaga’s unique, beautiful landscapes and dense, mysterious forest.

VISIT THE BEACHES

There are several amazing beaches in Anaga Rural Park, but these two are a must-visit. The best part is they’re right next to each other, so you can easily enjoy both!

Playa Benijo

I’ve already mentioned the stunning Playa Benijo, a secluded black sand beach in Anaga Rural Park that’s absolutely breathtaking. It’s known for its dramatic rock formations, wild waves, and stunning sunsets. It’s located near Taganana village, and it’s unfortunately closed to the public due to safety concerns. But it’s still worth a visit just to take in the gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline.

Playa Almaciga

If you’re looking to take a dip in the ocean, right next to Playa Benijo is the stunning Playa de Almáciga. It’s just as beautiful as Benijo, but the cliffs aren’t as close to the shore, making it much safer for beachgoers. This beach is perfect for surfers and strong swimmers, and it’s definitely one of the most picturesque spots on the island.

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED IN ANAGA?

I’d recommend setting aside at least half a day to explore Anaga Rural Park, although a full day is better if you want to visit several viewpoints, explore the laurel forest and stop in villages like Taganana. If you’re planning a longer hike, definitely plan extra time for the trail and transport. The roads are winding, so don’t underestimate the time needed to drive between different parts of the park. We spent the whole day on Anaga on our visit!

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING ANAGA

Before visiting Anaga Rural Park, keep these practical tips in mind to make your trip easier and safer:

• Weather: Anaga can be misty, humid and much cooler than southern Tenerife, so bring a light jacket even if it’s sunny elsewhere on the island.
• Footwear: Wear suitable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore forest trails or uneven terrain.
• Water and food: Bring enough water and snacks for your visit, particularly if you’re planning a longer walk, because facilities are limited in some areas.
• Parking: Use designated parking spaces and never stop on narrow mountain roads to take photos.
• Trail conditions: Check official alerts and trail closures before setting off.
• Permits: Check whether your chosen trail requires advance authorisation and arrange it before your visit if necessary.
• Driving: Give yourself extra time for the winding mountain roads and avoid trying to fit too many stops into one day.

HOW TO VISIT ANAGA RURAL PARK FAQ

CAN YOU VISIT ANAGA RURAL PARK WITHOUT A CAR?

Yes, you can visit parts of Anaga by public bus from Santa Cruz de Tenerife and other areas. However, buses don’t reach every viewpoint or trailhead, so having a car gives you more flexibility.

DO YOU NEED A PERMIT TO VISIT ANAGA RURAL PARK?

You don’t need a general permit to visit Anaga Rural Park, but some trails require advance authorisation. Check the official Tenerife website before your visit for the latest requirements and access restrictions.

WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ANAGA RURAL PARK?

Some of the best things to do include walking through the laurel forest, visiting Mirador Pico del Inglés and Mirador de Jardina, exploring the village of Taganana and enjoying the coastal scenery around Benijo.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ANAGA RURAL PARK?

Spring and autumn are great times to explore Anaga, but you can visit throughout the year. The weather can change quickly, so bring a jacket and check the forecast before setting off.

CAN YOU SWIM AT THE BEACHES IN ANAGA RURAL PARK?

Yes, Anaga has several beaches, including Playa de Almáciga and Playa de Benijo. However, the Atlantic Ocean can be rough, with strong currents and waves. Check local warnings and beach access restrictions before visiting, and only swim when conditions are safe.

CONCLUSION: HOW TO VISIT ANAGA RURAL PARK AND MY EXPERIENCE

Anaga Rural Park was one of my favourite places to explore in Tenerife. I loved the green mountains, winding roads, and incredible viewpoints overlooking the ocean. It felt completely different from the southern part of the island, and I’d highly recommend adding it to your Tenerife itinerary. Visiting it is not complicated, just make sure you arrive early in the day, wear proper shoes and clothes and have drinks and snacks!